Craving a crispy, golden-brown treat that’s both satisfying and easy to make? Look no further than these Baked Panko Chicken Tenders! Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, these tenders are not only a healthier alternative to frying, but they also deliver the crunch you crave with every bite. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, these irresistible chicken tenders are sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this simple yet delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare three shallow dishes for breading: In the first dish, mix flour with salt and pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs thoroughly. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika, mixing well.
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the breading adhere better to the chicken.
- Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage. Finally, coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help crumbs stick.
- Arrange breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Lightly spray or brush the chicken tenders with olive oil. This helps them turn golden brown and crisp in the oven.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: To streamline the cooking process, gather and measure all your ingredients before you start. This will help you stay organized and ensure a smooth cooking experience.
- Pat Dry for Better Breading: Make sure to pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels before breading them. This step helps the breading stick better and results in a crispier texture.
- Use Quality Panko: For the best crunch, use high-quality panko breadcrumbs. They are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken tenders that extra crunch.
- Don’t Skip the Oil: A light spray or brush of olive oil on the breaded chicken before baking is crucial. It helps achieve that beautiful golden color and crispy finish, making your tenders look as good as they taste.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Experiment with Dips: While these chicken tenders are delicious on their own, don’t hesitate to serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or even spicy sriracha for a fun twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 130mg
